Brachiocephalic Artery: The Essential Gateway to Upper Body Circulation
Updated: 2 days ago
Medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD · Last reviewed: October 2026
Quick Answer: What is the brachiocephalic artery?
The brachiocephalic artery is a major blood vessel branching from the aortic arch that supplies oxygen-rich blood to the upper right side of the body. [1] It splits into the right common carotid artery, serving the brain, and the right subclavian artery, serving the right arm. [1] Blood pressure management and a heart-healthy diet help prevent serious vascular complications.
What the research says
Branching patterns of the aortic arch vary in about 1 in 8 people. In 2,033 contrast CT scans, 13.3% of patients had a variation in the arteries arising from the aortic arch. A truncus bicaroticus (a shared origin of the brachiocephalic trunk and left common carotid artery) was found in 8.0%, and these variants were mostly incidental findings (PubMed: Müller et al., Acta Radiol, 2011) [2].
Aneurysms of the innominate artery are rare and often silent. Among 74 patients treated for supra-aortic aneurysms over 17 years at one center, only 3% involved the innominate artery. Overall, 70% of patients were asymptomatic at diagnosis, embolization rather than rupture was the main risk, and 5- and 10-year survival were 87% and 43% (PubMed: Cury et al., J Vasc Surg, 2009) [3].
For narrowed innominate arteries, stenting and surgery both work, with different trade-offs. A meta-analysis of 14 studies (656 patients; 396 surgery, 260 endovascular) found technical success of 97.1% with endovascular treatment versus 86.8% with surgery. Thirty-day mortality was 0.7% versus 3.4%, but restenosis during follow-up was 16.6% with endovascular treatment versus 2.8% with surgery, and follow-up was shorter for the endovascular group (PubMed: Catasta et al., Angiology, 2024) [4].
What does the brachiocephalic artery do in the circulatory system?
The brachiocephalic artery is a fundamental component of the body’s circulatory system, responsible for the efficient transport of oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the upper right extremities. [1] As the first branch of the aortic arch, it receives blood directly from the aorta, the body's largest artery. This strategic positioning ensures that the right side of the brain and the right arm are among the first areas to receive freshly oxygenated blood.
The artery acts as a "trunk" or base for two other major vessels, which is why it is often referred to as the brachiocephalic trunk. [1] Its primary responsibility is to bridge the gap between the central aortic flow and the specialized arteries that serve the head and limbs. Without this vessel, the right side of the upper body would lack the consistent nutrient supply required for neurological and muscular performance.
Feature | Description and Clinical Significance |
Alternate name | Often called the innominate artery or brachiocephalic trunk. |
Primary source | Arises as the first branch from the curved aortic arch. |
Target areas | Supplies the right side of the brain, face, neck, and right arm. |
Blood type | Exclusively carries oxygenated (oxygen-rich) blood. |
Where is the brachiocephalic artery, and how is it structured?
Located in the upper right side of the chest, the brachiocephalic artery resides within the mediastinum, the space between the lungs that also houses the heart. [1] It typically measures between 4 and 5 centimeters in length, with a diameter ranging from 10.5 to 13.7 millimeters. [1] The artery follows an upward path from the heart toward the neck before it divides.
The point of division, or bifurcation, occurs near the right sternoclavicular joint, the anatomical landmark where the collarbone meets the breastbone. [1] At this junction, the artery splits into its two terminal branches. Like all major arteries, its walls are composed of three specialized layers: the smooth internal lining (tunica intima), the muscular middle layer (tunica media), and the supportive outer layer (tunica adventitia). [1]
Right common carotid artery: Sends blood to the brain, head, and neck. [1]
Right subclavian artery: Supplies the upper right arm and parts of the chest.
Anatomical variations: Some individuals may have a shared origin with the left carotid artery. [1] [2]
Protective layers: Composed of endothelial cells, smooth muscle, and collagen. [1]
What conditions can affect the brachiocephalic artery?
The brachiocephalic artery can be affected by rare but significant conditions, including atherosclerosis, a tracheo-innominate fistula (TIF) and aneurysms. [1] Atherosclerosis, the buildup of plaque within the arterial walls, can cause the vessel to narrow over time. [1] Although plaque buildup is more common in the carotid arteries, it can occasionally restrict blood flow through the brachiocephalic trunk, potentially requiring surgical intervention or stenting. [1] [4]
Another serious condition is the tracheo-innominate fistula (TIF), an abnormal connection that can form between the windpipe and the artery, often as a complication of a long-term tracheostomy. [1] Additionally, aneurysms, which are weak spots in the artery wall that cause bulging, can occur, though they represent only a small fraction of all arterial aneurysms. [1] [3]
Condition | Description and Potential Impact |
Atherosclerosis | Plaque buildup that may narrow the vessel and limit blood flow. |
Aneurysm | A rare bulging or ballooning of the arterial wall. |
Tracheo-innominate fistula | A life-threatening complication involving the windpipe. |
Cerebrovascular disease | Issues that may affect blood flow to the brain. |
How is the brachiocephalic artery monitored and cared for?
Maintaining the health of the brachiocephalic artery involves the same heart-healthy habits that protect the entire vascular system. Managing systemic factors like high blood pressure and cholesterol is essential for preventing the plaque buildup that leads to atherosclerosis. [1] Healthcare providers may use advanced imaging, such as CT scans, to monitor the artery in patients at risk for specific complications. [1]
Recommended lifestyle adjustments include following a Mediterranean-style diet low in sodium and saturated fats, engaging in at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise per week, and strictly avoiding tobacco products. [1] Regular check-ups are vital for early detection of any vascular changes that could impact upper body circulation.
Conclusion
The brachiocephalic artery is a vital anatomical gateway, ensuring that the upper right side of the body remains nourished and functional. From its origin at the aortic arch to its bifurcation near the collarbone, it plays a silent but indispensable role in systemic health. By prioritizing vascular wellness through healthy lifestyle choices and regular medical screenings, individuals can protect this essential vessel and maintain optimal circulation to the brain and limbs.
If you have concerns about your circulatory health or are experiencing symptoms related to blood flow, consult with a healthcare professional to discuss appropriate diagnostic screenings and care plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the brachiocephalic artery?
The brachiocephalic artery is a major blood vessel that branches off the aorta to supply the upper right side of the body.
2. What is another name for this artery?
The brachiocephalic artery is also commonly known as the innominate artery or the brachiocephalic trunk.
3. Where is the brachiocephalic artery located?
The brachiocephalic artery is located in the upper right side of the chest, above the heart and below the neck.
4. What are the two branches of the brachiocephalic artery?
The brachiocephalic artery divides into the right common carotid artery and the right subclavian artery.
5. Does it carry oxygenated or deoxygenated blood?
The brachiocephalic artery carries oxygenated (oxygen-rich) blood to nourish the body.
6. How long is the brachiocephalic artery?
The brachiocephalic artery is generally between 4 and 5 centimeters long in most adults.
7. What is a tracheo-innominate fistula?
A tracheo-innominate fistula is a rare, life-threatening connection between the windpipe and the artery, usually after a tracheostomy.
8. Can atherosclerosis affect this artery?
Yes, plaque buildup can narrow the artery, though it is less common than in other vessels.
9. What anatomical landmark marks its division?
The brachiocephalic artery divides near the right sternoclavicular joint, where the collarbone and breastbone meet.
10. How can I keep my arteries healthy?
Avoid tobacco, eat a heart-healthy diet, exercise regularly, and manage your weight.
Related Reading
Subclavian Artery: Anatomy, Essential Functions, and Care explains the arm artery that branches from the brachiocephalic artery.
Carotid Artery: Anatomy, Function, and Stroke Prevention describes the neck artery that supplies the brain with blood.
Understanding the Great Vessels of the Heart: Anatomy and Function covers the large blood vessels that connect to the heart.
Subclavian Artery Stenosis: Symptoms, Causes, and Care explains narrowing of the subclavian artery and its treatment.
References
Cleveland Clinic. What Is the Brachiocephalic Artery? Cleveland Clinic. Nov. 2, 2022. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24410-brachiocephalic-artery
Müller M, Schmitz BL, Pauls S, et al. Variations of the aortic arch: a study on the most common branching patterns. Acta Radiol. 2011;52(7):738-742. PMID 21596797. https://doi.org/10.1258/ar.2011.110013
Cury M, Greenberg RK, Morales JP, et al. Supra-aortic vessels aneurysms: diagnosis and prompt intervention. J Vasc Surg. 2009;49(1):4-10. PMID 19174249. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvs.2008.08.088
Catasta A, Bianchini Massoni C, Perini P, et al. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the outcome of different treatments for innominate artery stenosis or occlusion. Angiology. 2024;75(4):314-322. PMID 36891765. https://doi.org/10.1177/00033197231162179
Medical Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here.
Comments